A new stamp has been unveiled honouring Nellie Cournoyea, a champion for Indigenous self-determination and Inuit empowerment.
She made history as the first Indigenous woman to head a provincial or territorial government in Canada, serving as Premier of the Northwest Territories from 1991 to 1995.
Nellie's life story is inspiring. She was born in Aklavik, Northwest Territories to a trapper father and an Inuvialuit mother. She grew up living a traditional lifestyle and completed most of her education through correspondence courses. She went on to have a successful career in radio and as a land claims fieldworker.
The stamp is part of a set of three Indigenous Leaders stamps to be released on June 21 by Canada Post.
About the Indigenous Leaders stamp series
Launched in 2022, the multi-year Indigenous Leaders stamp series highlights the contributions of modern-day First Nations, Inuit and Métis leaders. These extraordinary people dedicated their lives to preserving their cultures and improving the quality of life of the Indigenous Peoples in Canada.
This year, on National Indigenous Peoples Day, Canada Post will issue stamps honouring Indigenous leaders Nellie Cournoyea, George Manuel and Thelma Chalifoux.
The two other stamp unveilings this week:
- On June 12, the stamp paying tribute to George Manuel will be revealed at an event in North Vancouver, British Columbia.
- On June 13, the stamp honouring Thelma Chalifoux will be presented at an event in St. Albert, Alberta.
The new stamps and collectibles will be available at canadapost.ca and postal outlets across Canada beginning June 21.
banner image: Canada Post
